Norwalk virus PCR, Human Calicivirus PCR

Real-time DNA Amplification

Test performed Monday – Friday; Turn-around-time 24-48hr

Stool  Specimen

Sterile Container
Specimen Labeling: Test subject to CLIA regulations and required 2 patient identifiers on specimen container and requisition forms

Minimum 1 mL

Prior to and during shipment: Refrigerate 2-8°C for up to 72h after collection. Ship as soon as possible.
Shipping instructions, including specimen-handling requirements during transport:  Seal screw-top tubes with Parafilm™ or tape and place in biohazard bag with absorbent material.
Place specimen inside leak proof secondary container (biohazard bag and if transporting by air, use Tyvek™ Envelope) with adsorbent material. The secondary container must be packed inside an approved Category B shipping container filled with frozen gel-packs to keep specimen refrigerated. Position NUlirt packing list or NPHL Test Order form between secondary container and box lid. Seal with tape.  Label outer box as UN3373 Category B, Biological Substance. Transport by NPHL ground courier. If courier not available, ship by FedEx, UPS, or USPS (1st Class, Priority or Express Mail). Follow appropriate DOT/IATA Regulation Guidelines.  For assistance, call NPHL State Training Coordinator at (402) 559-3590.  
See instructions and shipping address: http://nphl.org/

NUlirt packing list or appropriate paperwork (completed in entirety) must accompany specimens.
 

Stool stored at room temperature >8 hours and stool contaminated with urine

Ambient, 8 hours; refrigerated, 3 days; frozen, 1 month

No norovirus detected. Results for genotype I and II reported if positive

Report positive Norovirus within 7d to local or state health department. Refer to Nebraska DHHS Title 173, Communicable Diseases.

Pre-approval needed from state or local health department.  Send approval to NPHL@unmc.edu or call (402) 559-9444.
The Cepheid Xpert Norovirus Assay, performed on the GeneXpert® Instrument Systems, is a qualitative in vitro diagnostic test for the identification and differentiation of norovirus genogroup I and genogroup II RNA from raw or unpreserved uniformed stool specimens collected from individuals with symptoms of acute gastroenteritis. The test utilizes automated real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect norovirus.

NUlirt packing list or NPHL Test Order Form (completed in entirety) must accompany the specimen.